I didn't think such a thing could exist? With all the traveling, shopping, wrapping, and decorating, how could one possibly survive without a little stress? If there is way, believe me, I NEED to know it. It all goes with my life plan of living the easiest life possible. So I did what everyone these days does- I Googled. I found this amazing site, Organized Christmas, which gives tips on everything from gift giving rules, to decorating on a budget, to printer friendly spending guides.
• Prune the to-do list. Ask, “If I don’t do this, what will happen?”***
• Cut the gift list. Limit gifts to children only, draw names, or organize a gift exchange.
• Wrap as you go. Sticky notes will help you keep track of gift contents.
• Buy, don’t bake. Who needs long hours in front of a hot stove?
• Call, don’t send cards. Reach out and touch someone … the easy way.
• Scale back décor. Substitute a simple door wreath for outdoor lighting, a tabletop tree for the over-the-top tannenbaum.
• Cut the clean-a-thon. Focus cleaning attention on kitchen and public rooms; private areas can slide til season’s end.
• Downsize dishwashing. Hand-washing fine china is nobody’s idea of a good time. Simpler still: paper plates!
• Finger food, not feast. A smorgasboard of tasty tidbits is easier on the cook and kinder to the waistline than a sit-down dinner.
• Stay home! Cuddling down close to the hearth beats holiday travel any day.
*** I really love this one! Seriously, this should be your motto for anything!!
They also have a wonderful database of tons of lists you can print out including a week-by-week Christmas Countdown that helps you get ready for all the craziness.
The Gift Idea Sheet is very helpful for those who are always hard to buy for. You could use it during the year to record ideas you come across.
The Baking List will help you remember which neighbor likes chocolate cookies and which likes sugar cookies!
I'll have to let you know if this helps alleviate any of my holiday stress!
© The Simple Wife
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